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The much-awaited semi-final between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5)

A half-chance went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.